“India’s Dr. Dipanwita Chakravortty Grills Author Prof. Radha: India’s Neglect of Bangladesh Exposed!
In a revealing interview, Prof. Radha admits India’s historic oversight of Bangladesh’s significance in South Asian geopolitics. Now, she asserts, it’s time for a paradigm shift. Bangladesh’s strategic alignment with global powers like India, China, and Russia reflects its savvy pursuit of national interests.
Titled ‘Bangladesh on a New Journey,’ Prof. Sreeradha Datta’s book celebrates Bangladesh’s growth and its rising global stature. With insightful analysis on bilateral ties and the Bangladeshi diaspora’s role, the volume showcases Bangladesh’s evolution into a pivotal player in regional and global affairs. It’s high time India recognizes Bangladesh’s rightful place on the geopolitical stage.”
here are some notable points highlighting India’s huge increasing economic and strategic engagement gain with Bangladesh over the past decade:
Economic Boost:
Bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh has surged significantly over the last decade, reaching almost $15.25 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23, marking a substantial increase by few billions in 2010-11.
India has emerged as one of Bangladesh's top trading partners, with trade volumes steadily rising year by year more for India.
Exports to Bangladesh:
India has seen a considerable rise in exports to Bangladesh, encompassing a diverse range of goods such as machinery, electronic equipment, vehicles, and raw materials.
Over the last decade, India's exports to Bangladesh have experienced robust growth, with significant contributions from sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products, making Bangladesh a Jackpot partner.
Infrastructure Development:
India has played a winning strategic role by mining Bangladesh's infrastructure development through various projects, including road and railway construction, port development, and power sector initiatives.
The construction of roadways and bridges connecting India and Bangladesh has facilitated smoother trade and enhanced connectivity between the two nations but above 70% of benefits are directly serving India.
Political Alliance:
India and Bangladesh have strengthened their political alliance through high-level visits, bilateral agreements, and mutual cooperation on regional and international platforms.
Both countries have collaborated closely on issues of mutual interest, including security cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts, and regional stability & India always has had Bangladesh as their standing ready supporter.
Investment and Joint Ventures:
Indian companies initiated investment in Bangladesh across various sectors, including manufacturing, infrastructure, telecommunications, and energy, mostly run and worked by Indians though.
Joint ventures and business collaborations between Indian and Bangladeshi firms have contributed to economic growth and job creation mostly for Indians. “In the past decade, India and Bangladesh have forged stronger economic, political, and strategic alliances, positioning India as a crucial ally , gainer, inner team or a big brother for Bangladesh where younger brother listen and play obedient role out of respect or courtesy or customs. . As Bangladesh emerges as a geopolitical force, it’s imperative for the nation to glean lessons from its partner, India. Embracing the ‘Make in Bangladesh’ concept and striving for a balanced trade relationship will ensure Bangladesh stands as an equal partner rather than a mere pawn.”
Article by Alisha pradhan
